Wednesday, December 30, 2009

RIP David Levine, Master Caricaturist

A giant in the caricature world passed on yesterday. David Levine, 83, of New York, who was well-known for his biting pen & ink versions of past and present politicians, the famous and (infamous) of the world, was a favorite artist of mine. Here is an example of one of his pieces:
"John Rennon's Excrusive Gloupie" by David Levine. Pen & ink, 1975

He was known for not only the incisive black and white technique he used, but for his witty observations on current events. Thus, this drawing of Yoko Ono looming large with a tiny John Lennon on a leash, evinced the then-current (and still held by some) view that Yoko was an oppressive force in her husband's life.

The International Society of Caricature Artists had long wanted to have him as a guest speaker, but scheduling was a difficulty. I would have totally loved to meet him had that been possible. However, he won't be forgotten because his art influenced many, many people.